Module and enclosure for use therein

ABSTRACT

A fiber optic module includes a housing having a first major surface and an opposite second major surface. The module includes an input configured to receive at least one module input fiber. The module includes at least one connectorized pigtail output routed from the housing. The pigtail output is configured to carry a signal from at the at least one module input fiber entering the housing via the input. The module further includes at least one connector storage feature disposed on the first major surface of the housing. The connector storage feature is configured to receive and store the connectorized pigtail output.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/087,522, filed Sep. 21, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,663,684, issued onMay 26, 2020, which is a National Stage Application ofPCT/EP2017/056847, filed on Mar. 22, 2017, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/312,224, filed on Mar. 23,2016, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/312,557, filed on Mar. 24, 2016, the disclosures of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entireties. To the extentappropriate, a claim of priority is made to each of the above disclosedapplications.

BACKGROUND

Passive optical networks are becoming prevalent in part because serviceproviders want to deliver high bandwidth communication capabilities tocustomers. Passive optical networks are a desirable choice fordelivering high speed communication data because they may not employactive electronic devices, such as amplifiers and repeaters, between acentral office and a subscriber termination. The absence of activeelectronic devices may decrease network complexity and/or cost and mayincrease network reliability.

As demand for telecommunications increases, optical fiber services arebeing extended in more and more areas. To more efficiently extend thefiber optic service into areas where current and future customers arelocated, telecommunications enclosures are integrated throughout thenetwork of telecommunications cables. Such enclosures provide connectionlocations where one or more optical fibers of the multi-fiber cable maybe connected to end users/subscribers. Also, the enclosures are adaptedto house and protect telecommunications components such as splices,termination panels, power splitters, and wavelength divisionmultiplexers.

Improvements are desired.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present the disclosure, a fiber opticmodule is disclosed. The fiber optic module includes a housing having afirst major surface and an opposite second major surface. The moduleincludes an input configured to receive at least one module input fiberand at least one connectorized pigtail output routed from the housing.The pigtail output is configured to carry a signal from module inputfiber(s) entering the housing via the input. The module further includesat least one connector storage feature disposed on the first majorsurface of the housing. The connector storage feature is configured toreceive and store the connectorized pigtail output.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is directed to an enclosureincludes a base defining a splice region and a cover coupled to the baseto move between a closed position and an open position. The cover andthe base cooperate to define an interior when the cover is in the closedposition and the cover provides access to the interior when in the openposition. The enclosure also includes a plurality of ruggedized adaptersdisposed on the cover. Each ruggedized adapter having an inner portaccessible from an inner side of the cover and an outer port accessiblefrom an outer side of the cover. The enclosure further includes a moduledisposed at the inner side of the cover. At least one module input fiberbeing routed from the splice region of the base to the module. The atleast one input fiber is output from the module as a pigtail that has aconnectorized end configured to be connected to the inner port of one ofthe ruggedized adapters. The module also has a first major surface thatincludes connector storage. The connector storage is configured toreceive and hold the connectorized end of the pigtail. The enclosurealso includes a cable input location for receiving an input cable thatincludes at least one tube surrounding at least one feeder fiber thatcarries the same signal as the at least one module input fiber beingrouted from the splice region to the module. The input cable beinganchored to the base at the cable input location.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is directed to at least oneconnector storage slots being disposed on a first major surface of amodule. The slot includes a first end and a second end. Each slot isconfigured to receive a connectorized pigtail of the module at the firstend and hold the connectorized pigtail within the slot.

In some embodiments, the at least one slot further comprises a pair ofretention tabs, a pair of side walls, and at least a partial end wall toaid in retaining the connectorized pigtail within the slot.

A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in thedescription that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individualfeatures and to combinations of features. It is to be understood thatboth the forgoing general description and the following detaileddescription are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictiveof the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosedherein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a top, front, left side perspective view of atelecommunications enclosure having features that are examples ofinventive aspects in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 is a bottom, rear, left side perspective view of the enclosure ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a right side view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a left side view of the enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a left side cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG.3;

FIG. 10 is a left side perspective cross-sectional view taken along lineA-A of FIG. 3;

FIG. 11 is a right side perspective view of the enclosure of FIG. 1shown with the cover of the enclosure in the open position;

FIG. 12 is a left side perspective view of the enclosure of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 11 with the splitter moduleprotection cover in the open position;

FIG. 14 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 13 with the gel block of thecover of the enclosure in an exploded configuration;

FIG. 15 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 14 with the splitter modulesof the enclosure also in an exploded configuration;

FIG. 16 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 15 with the covers of thesplitter modules removed therefrom to show the internal featuresthereof;

FIG. 17 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 12 with the splice module inan exploded configuration;

FIG. 18 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 17 with the splice module ofthe enclosure mounted within the base and the storage tray and thesplice trays of the splice module in a pivoted position;

FIG. 19 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 18 from a front view with thestorage tray in the non-pivoted position;

FIG. 20 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 19 with one of the splicetrays also in the non-pivoted position;

FIG. 21 illustrates the entry region of the enclosure of FIGS. 1-20 witha feeder cable loop anchored to the enclosure;

FIGS. 22-26 illustrate the slidable mounting of a tube holder to thebase of the enclosure for securing the tubes of feeder or branch cablesto the enclosure;

FIG. 27 illustrates the tube holder of the enclosure in aslid-back/access position to allow one of the tubes of a feeder cable tobe secured to the enclosure for further processing of the fiberstherein;

FIG. 28 illustrates the tube of the feeder cable of FIG. 27 placedwithin the tube holding location;

FIG. 29 illustrates the tube holder of FIGS. 27-28 in a closed positionwith a tube of the feeder cable and a tube of a branch cable separatedby the tube holder;

FIG. 30 is a close-up view of the tube holder of FIG. 29 showing thetube holder separating the tube of the feeder cable and the tube of thebranch cable;

FIG. 31 illustrates an example cable routing configuration for theenclosure of FIGS. 1-20 showing input fibers surrounded by a tubeextending from the splice trays of the base to the splitter modules ofthe cover and connectorized output pigtails extending from the splittermodules to the ruggedized fiber optic adapters of the cover;

FIG. 32 illustrates the enclosure of FIG. 31 with all of the ruggedizedfiber optic adapters of the cover populated with connectorized outputpigtails extending from a splitter module;

FIG. 33 illustrates a module similar to the splitter modules usable inthe enclosure of FIGS. 1-20, the module shown with a straight-throughcable routing configuration with all of the input fibers being output asconnectorized pigtails;

FIG. 34 illustrates the module of FIG. 33 without the cover thereof toshow the internal cable routing within the module;

FIG. 35 is a close up view of the tube input location of the module ofFIG. 34;

FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective view of a module similar to themodules usable in the enclosure of FIGS. 1-20, according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a first major surface of the module ofFIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is a close up view of connector storage of the module of FIG.36;

FIG. 39-40 illustrates top perspective views of the housing of themodule of FIG. 36;

FIG. 41 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the housing of themodule of FIG. 36;

FIG. 42 illustrates a top view of the housing of the module of FIG. 36;and

FIG. 43 illustrates a bottom view of the housing of the module of FIG.36.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the presentdisclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whereverpossible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout thedrawings to refer to the same or like parts.

In general, the disclosure relates to a telecommunications enclosure andmodular elements mounted within the enclosure, wherein the modularelements may be used for signal splitting/processing.

FIGS. 1-20 illustrate an example enclosure 10 in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure. The enclosure 10 is generallyconfigured to be mounted to a vertical structure such as a wall or atelecommunications poll. The enclosure 10 is generally configured toconnect at least one feeder fiber 12 (e.g., carried by a feeder cable 14entering the enclosure 10) to at least two drop fibers exiting theenclosure 10. According to one example, the feeder fiber 12 may be a250-micron fiber.

As shown in FIGS. 1-20, the example enclosure 10 defines one or moreinput ports 16 leading to an interior 18 of the enclosure 10. In oneexample, the enclosure 10 includes at least two input ports 16 forlooping the feeder cable 14 within the enclosure 10. In the givenexample, the enclosure 10 includes four input ports 16, wherein the twoouter input ports 16 may be used for looping a feeder cable 14 and thetwo middle input ports 16 may be used for looping a branch cable 20 aswill be discussed in further detail below.

The outputs 22 of the enclosure 10 are defined by ports 24 (eight in thegiven example) that can be populated with optical adapters 26 (e.g.,ruggedized adapters) for mating the connectorized fibers 28 coming fromwithin the enclosure 10 to connectorized drop cables leading away fromthe enclosure 10. The ports 24 output signals that have been processedor split by the optical devices 30 within the enclosure 10. In certainembodiments, the enclosure 10 may be used to support a pass-througharrangement wherein the same number of fibers that enter the enclosureare output from the enclosure 10 without a power split operation.Examples of such arrangements will be discussed in further detail below.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-20, as noted above, the example enclosure 10may house modular elements in the form of splitter modules 32 thatinclude optical devices 30 in the form of optical splitters 34. Thesplitter modules 32 may be configured to receive at least one moduleinput fiber 13 (continuing the same signal as the feeder fiber 12) andoutput a plurality of connectorized pigtails 28. Each splitter module 32defines a housing 36 enclosing the optical splitter 34. Signals carriedby the module input fiber 13 are split (e.g., power split) onto theoutput pigtails 28 by the optical splitter 34. Each output pigtail 28may have a connectorized end that exits the example enclosure 10 via theruggedized adapters 26 as noted above.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-20, the enclosure 10 defines a base 38 and acover 40 coupled to the base 38. The enclosure 10 has a front 42, a rear44, a top 46, a bottom 48, a right side 50, and a left side 52. In theexample shown, the base 38 defines the rear 44 of the enclosure 10, andthe cover 40 defines the front 42 of the enclosure 10. However, theterms “front,” “rear,” “top,” and “bottom” are not intended to belimited and are used for clarity. The enclosure 10 can be disposed inany desired orientation.

As noted above, the base 38 may be configured to be mounted to astructure (e.g., a wall or other surface). For example, the base 38 caninclude one or more mounting structures in the form of mounting flanges54 for mounting to a wall. In the depicted embodiment, the mountingflanges 54 are formed integrally with the base 38 of the enclosure 10,as shown in FIGS. 1-4. When the enclosure 10 needs to be mounted to asurface such as a wall surface, fasteners can be inserted throughopenings 56 defined on the mounting flanges 54.

If the enclosure 10 needs to be mounted to a vertical surface that hascurvature such as a telecommunications pole, a separate bracket may beattached to the base 38, wherein the bracket may include loops for usewith straps in tying the enclosure 10 to the pole.

Now referring to FIGS. 11-20, the cover 40 is configured to pivotrelative to the base 38 between a closed position and an open position.The cover 40 and the base 38 cooperate to define the interior 18 whenthe cover 40 is in the closed position. The base 38 and cover 40 alsocooperate to activate an enclosure gasket 58 when closed. The enclosuregasket 58 inhibits ingress of contaminants through a seam between thebase 38 and the cover 40. User access to the enclosure interior 18 isprovided when the cover 40 is in the open position.

To provide the pivoting motion, the base 38 and the cover 40 can includehinge members 60 that cooperate to define a hinge axis. In someimplementations, the cover 40 can be locked in the closed position. Forexample, a clasp arrangement 62 can hold the cover 40 in the closedposition relative to the base 38. In other implementations, the cover 40can be latched relative to the base 38. In still other implementations,a padlock or other type of lock can retain the cover 40 in the closedposition.

In some implementations, the optical adapters 26 that are used foroutputting the signals from the enclosure 10 may be carried by the cover40 so that inner ports 64 of the adapters 26 are accessible from aninterior side of the cover 40, and outer ports 66 of the adapters 26 areaccessible from an exterior side of the cover 40. In certainimplementations, the adapters 26 are angled so that the outer ports 66face towards the input ports 16 of the enclosure 10 (please see FIGS. 1,3, and 5). For example, the cover 40 can define one or more adaptermounting surfaces 68 and one or more module mounting surfaces 70. Theadapter mounting surfaces 68 define the output openings/ports 24. Incertain examples, the adapter mounting surfaces 70 are angled towardsthe input openings 16 of the enclosure 10.

As noted above, in some implementations, the splitter modules 32 thatcarry the optical splitters 34 may be carried by the cover 40. Forexample, the inner side of the cover 40 may define one or more pockets72 for receiving the splitter modules 32, wherein the pockets 72 arebordered on one side by the module mounting surfaces 70. In certainimplementations, each pocket 72 is disposed between a row of the outputports 24 and the interior side of the module mounting surface 70. Asplitter module 32 may be shaped to fit within the pocket 72.

In some implementations, the cover 40 defines multiple pockets 72 forreceiving multiple modules 32. In certain examples, the cover 40 definesa pocket 72 for each row of the optical adapters 26. In the exampleshown, the cover 40 defines two pockets 72 and two rows of opticaladapters 26. One splitter module 32 is disposed at each pocket 72 in thegiven example. Output pigtails 28 from each splitter module 32 areconnected to the adapters 26 in the respective row.

The modular elements in the form of splitter modules 32 are shown in anexploded configuration off the enclosure 10 in FIGS. 15 and 16. In FIG.16, the housings 36 of the modular elements 32 are shown without covers74 thereof to illustrate the internal features.

As noted above, each splitter module 32 defines a module housing 36. Themodule housing 36 defines a first major surface 76 connected to a secondmajor surface 78 by a circumferential edge 80. The module housing 36defines an interior 82 between the major surfaces 76, 78.

As shown in FIG. 16, the module housing 36 includes a first part 84 anda second part 86 that cooperate to define the interior 82. In someimplementations, the first part 84 defines one of the major surfaces 76,78 and the circumferential edge 80, and the second part 86 defines theother of the major surfaces 76, 78. In other implementations, both parts84, 86 may define the circumferential edge 80. In the example shown, thefirst part 84 defines the second major surface 78 and thecircumferential edge 80, and the second part 86 defines the first majorsurface 76. In some implementations, the first part 84 is configured tocarry an optical device such as the optical splitter 34, and the secondpart 86 is provided as a removable cover 74 that covers an open side ofthe first part 84 to enclose the splitter 34.

In some implementations, various connecting structures hold the secondpart 86 to the first part 84. For example, in certain implementations,latching tabs 88 may extend from one of the parts 84, 86 and engagerecesses 90 defined in the other of the parts 84, 86.

As shown in FIG. 16, the interior 82 of the module housing 36 caninclude an optical device (e.g., splitter) mounting region 92 and afiber routing region 94. In the depicted embodiment, a fiber inputopening 96 is at a right, top corner of the module housing 36. Outletopenings 98 may be defined at the top right and left corners of themodule housing 36 by the circumferential edge 80. In other embodiments,the outlet openings 98 may be defined by the cover 74 (such as in theexample of the module 32 shown in FIGS. 33-35). In the example shown inFIGS. 15-16, an optical device such as a splitter 34 may be disposed inthe optical device mounting region 92, which is shown to be locatedbetween the fiber routing region 94 and the circumferential edge 80defining the top end of the module 32. In other examples, however, thesplitter 34 can be mounted anywhere within the interior 82 of thehousing 36.

The input opening 96 is configured with an anchor 100 for securing atube 102 carrying the module input fiber or fibers 13. The anchor 100defines a tube stop 198 for limiting slidability of the tube 102 duringinsertion of the tube 102 into the input opening 96. The input opening96 provides access into the interior 82 of the splitter module housing36.

Within the interior 82 of the splitter module housing 36, the fiber 12is led from the input opening 96 directly into the fiber routing region94. The fiber routing region 94 defines cable management tabs 104 thatretain the fiber(s) 12, 28 within the fiber routing region 94. A largespool 106 and a smaller spool 108 are defined in the fiber routingregion 94 to provide for different routing options for the fiber(s) 12,28 routed within the module 32.

When the module 32 is a splitter module that includes a fiber opticsplitter 34, output pigtails 28 are connected to an output end of thesplitter 34. The output pigtails 28 are routed from the splitter 34towards the outlet openings 98 of the module 32. Some of the outputpigtails 28 can be wound around the spool arrangement consisting of thelarge spool 106 and the smaller spool 108 to direct the output pigtails28 to the right outlet opening 98, and others of the output pigtails 28can be wound around the spool arrangement to direct the output pigtails28 to the left outlet opening 98. Accordingly, the output pigtails 28can extend out through the outlet openings 98 in different directions.

In certain implementations, the interior 82 of the splitter modulehousing 36 may also include a region configured to retain a splicesleeve in addition to the splitter 34. The splice region may enable arepair to be made to one of the fibers 12, 28 within the splitter module32.

Referring to FIGS. 14-16, the splitter module 32 may include a mountingarrangement that aids in securing the splitter module 32 within thepockets 72 defined by the cover 40 of enclosure 10 of the presentdisclosure. The mounting arrangement may include catches 110 that extendoutwardly from the splitter module housing 36 (please see FIGS. 33-34).

The enclosure 10 may define structures in each pocket 72 that mate withthe catches 110 of the splitter modules 32 for receiving the modules 32.

For further details relating to examples of mounting arrangements andmethods of mounting the splitter modules 32 within the pockets 72 of thecover 40 of the enclosure 10, please refer to International PublicationNo. WO 2015/150204, the entire disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

The splitter modules 32 within the cover 40 of the enclosure 10 and thefiber optic adapters 26 mounted on the cover 40 of the enclosure 10 maybe protected by a hingable protection cover 112 that is pivotallymounted to the cover 40 of the enclosure 10 as seen in FIGS. 14-16. Theprotection cover 112 is hinged to the cover 40 of the enclosure 10adjacent the lower part of the cover 40 and defines tabs 114 adjacentthe top thereof for latching with the cover 40 of the enclosure 10adjacent the top side. As shown in FIG. 32, when a tube 102 carrying amodule input fiber 13 is routed from the base 38 of the enclosure 10toward the splitter modules 32 at the cover 40 of the enclosure 10, thetube 102 is routed under the protection cover 112 to help retain thetube 102 within the cover 40 of the enclosure 10.

Also, as discussed previously, even though the modular elements withinthe enclosure 10 have been discussed as modules that house opticalelements in the form of splitters 34, in other embodiments, the modules32 may provide straight-through cable routing. FIGS. 33-35 illustrate amodule similar to the splitter modules 32 usable in the enclosure, themodule shown with a straight-through cable routing configuration withall of the module input fibers 13 being output as connectorized pigtails28. Instead of a single fiber 13 that is input into the module 32 beingpower split into a plurality of output pigtails 28 by an opticalsplitter 34, the module shown in FIGS. 33-35 provides cable managementfor fibers 13 that are passed straight through. In the depicted examplein FIG. 33, a tube 102 carrying eight fibers 13 is secured to the modulehousing 36. After the fibers 13 are routed around the cable managementstructures provided in the module, the fibers 13 are output from themodule as connectorized pigtails 28. The module illustrated in FIG. 33is configured to populate all of the ruggedized adapters 26 on the cover40 of the enclosure 10, whereas the module in FIG. 34 is acting as astraight-through module for a tube 102 carrying only four fibers 12.FIG. 35 illustrates the tube anchor portion 100 of the module housing 36wherein a tube 102 carrying the module input fibers 13 can be slidablymounted until reaching the tube stop 198 in the anchor region 100.

Thus, rather than carrying power splitters 34, the modular elementslocated within the enclosure 10 can be used for straight-throughpatching.

Now referring to FIGS. 11-32, the base 38 of the enclosure 10 is usedfor receiving the input signals that are to be processed and fordirecting the input signals toward the splitter modules 32 that arelocated on the cover 40. As will be discussed in further detail below,the base 38 may include locations or trays 116 used for splicing fibers12 carrying input signals to fibers (carrying the same signal as fibers12) that lead to the splitter modules 32. The base 40 also includes astorage tray 118 positioned underneath the splice trays 116 for storingunprocessed/unused fibers. The storage tray 118 can be seen in FIG. 19.

Furthermore, the interior 18 of the enclosure 10 may also define apocket 120 underneath the storage tray 118 for storing the unused loop122 of the feeder cable 14 coming into the enclosure 10 as will bediscussed in further detail below (please see FIGS. 18 and 21).

According to an example arrangement for the enclosure 10, a feeder cable14 that includes the fibers 12 carrying the input signals enters theenclosure through the input ports 16 defined at the base 38.

In some implementations, the input ports 16 may be defined solely by thebase 38. In other implementations, as in the depicted example, the base38 and the cover 40 may cooperate to define the input ports 16. In theexample shown in FIGS. 1-32, the base 38 and the cover 40 each define apartial port opening that align to form the input ports 16 when thecover 40 is closed relative to the base 38.

In some implementations, the base 38 may include an anchoring region 124at which the feeder cable 14 can be anchored. The anchoring region 124houses the gel block 126 for the base 38 and is disposed under thesplice region defined by the splice trays 116, which are located closerto the top 46 of the enclosure 10. The feeder cable 14 entering theenclosure 10 generally includes the feeder fiber 12, a jacket 128,and/or a strength layer 130 that can be attached to the base 38 at theanchoring region 124. As shown in FIG. 21, the jacket 128 of the feedercable 14 may be attached to the anchoring region 124 via structures suchas hose clamps 132. And, still referring to FIG. 21, after enteringthrough an input port 16, the strength layer 130 of the feeder cable 14may be anchored to the base 38 via a strain relief device 134. Forfurther description relating to the strain relief device 134 and themethod of using thereof, please refer to U.S. Patent Publication No.2015/0093090 and International Publication No. WO2015/144397, the entiredisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In certain implementations, the base 38 and the cover 40 both cooperateto activate the gel block 126 or other seal at the input ports 16. Thegel block 126, as noted above, inhibits ingress of contaminants into theenclosure 10 through the input ports 16. In some implementations, thebase 38 defines a sealing pocket 136 (e.g., at the anchoring region 124)in which the gel block 136 seats. In certain implementations, the cover40 also can define a sealing pocket 136 aligned with the base sealingpocket 136. In certain examples, the cover 40 and base 38 compress twogel blocks 126 together when closed. The feeder cables 14 are routedbetween the gel blocks 126.

According to an example embodiment, the feeder cable 14 that enters theenclosure may carry a plurality of separate input tubes 138, eachcarrying a plurality of feeder input fibers 12. According to oneembodiment, the feeder cable 14 may carry six fiber-protecting tubes138. For processing, one of the tubes 138 may be separated from the restfor further processing. The tube 138 that is separated is trimmed andthe feeder fibers 12 therein are exposed. The unused tubes 138 (e.g.,five of the tubes 138 from the feeder cable 14) may be stored as a loop122 in the pocket 120 underneath the storage tray 118. Please refer toFIG. 21 for an example of a feeder cable loop 122 that can be stored inthe pocket 120 of the enclosure 10.

From the trimmed tube 138, one of the feeder fibers 12 is cut forfurther processing (e.g., splicing and splitting). The uncut feederfibers 12 are lead to the storage tray 118 for fiber storage or futureuse. The uncut feeder fibers 12 (e.g., 250-micron) are stored within thestorage tray 118 in an uncut loop.

For those feeder fibers 12 that are going to be stored in the storagetray 118, the uncut feeder fibers 12 follow the lowest of threepassageways 140 that lead from a tube holding location 142 on theenclosure 10. The uncut feeder fibers 12, after being stored as a loopin the storage tray 118, leave the enclosure 10 through the same port 16that the unused tubes 138 leave. Thus, the enclosure is used essentiallyfor storing unused tubes 138 in a loop 122 in the pocket 120 below thestorage tray 118 and also for storing unused, uncut feeder fibers 12 ina loop in the storage tray 118, before all of the unused tubes 138 andunused feeder fibers 12 are lead out of the feeder cable exit port 16(or branch cable exit port if those tubes and fibers are from a branchcable 20 as opposed to a feeder cable 14) with feeder cable 14.

The feeder fiber 12 to be processed is routed to one of the splice trays116 and is spliced to the module input fiber 13 that leads to one of thesplitter modules 32 on the cover 40. The splice trays 116 enable themodule input fibers 13 to be spliced to incoming feeder fibers 12.

If one feeder fiber 12 is to be processed, that feeder fiber 12 eitherleads to the middle splice tray 116 by following the middle of the threepassageways 140 that lead from the tube holding location 142 or to theuppermost tray 116 by following the uppermost of the three passageways140 that lead from the tube holding location 142.

It should be noted that a feeder fiber 12 to be processed coming fromthe right side 50 of the enclosure 10 is lead through one of thepassageways 140 and enters a splice tray 116 from the left upper side ofthe tray 116. That feeder fiber 12 is initially wrapped around a cablemanagement spool 144 (and retained therein via cable management fingers146) before being lead to a splice area 148, which is located underneaththe cable management spool 144 as shown in FIGS. 17, 19, and 20.

Due to temperature variations, the tubes 138 carrying the feeder fibers12 may expand or contract at a different rate than the feeder fibers 12.In certain instances, when the tubes 138 contract or shrink at adifferent rate than the feeder fibers 12, the feeder fibers 12 willexperience a “grow-out” effect. The shrinking tubes 138 along the entirelength of the feeder cable 14 will push the feeder fibers 12 furtherinto the enclosure 10. For example, a 1% grow-out might mean that anextra 2-3 cm of 250-micron feeder fiber 12 needs to be accommodated. Theextra “over-length” of feeder fiber 12 needs to be accommodated whilestill keeping the feeder fiber 12 organized/retained within enclosure10. Parts of the enclosure 10 include features for accommodating suchgrow-out of the feeder fibers 12.

For example, as will be described in further detail below, a tube holder150 that is located at the tube holding location 142 of the enclosure 10allows the 250-micron fibers 12 that are protruding from the cut tube138 to have more room in front of/above the tube holder 150. The tubeholder 150 is made generally smaller so as to leave more room for thefiber 12 to grow forwardly before being lead to either the storage tray118 or the splice trays 116. The smaller size tube holder 150 requiresthe tube 138 to be cut at a shorter length, exposing the feeder fibers12 earlier into the enclosure 10. The smaller length of the tube 138protruding into the enclosure 10 allows more room for the 250-micronfeeder fiber 12 to grow out toward the storage/splice trays duringtemperature variations.

Another grow-out feature or zone may be seen in the storage tray 118,specifically in the upper right and left corners 152 of the storage tray118.

For example, as the feeder fiber(s) 12 is entering the storage tray 118after leading through the lowest of the three passageways 140 (e.g.,going from the right side 50 toward the left side 52 of the enclosure10), the feeder fiber 12 is routed into an angled input port 154 of thestorage tray 118. When the feeder fiber 12 is routed into the storagetray 118 through the input port 154, the feeder fiber 12 generally laysadjacent the upper edge wall 156 of the angled input port 154 and isthen lead directly into the tray 118. As shown in FIG. 19, just past theangled input port 154, the upper edge wall 156 of the storage tray 118leads straight left and provides a curved transition 158 from the upperedge wall 156 to the left edge wall 160. The curved transition section158 (i.e., the upper left corner 152 of the storage tray 118) borders agrow-out zone/area 162 where the fiber can expand if met withtemperature variations. Where the feeder fiber 12 entering the storagetray 118 would follow the same angle as the input port 154 of thestorage tray 118 under normal circumstances and lead directly toward theleft edge wall 160 of the storage tray 118, if the feeder fiber 12experiences a grow-out, the feeder fiber 12 can expand and beaccommodated by the grow-out zone 162 bordered by the curved transitionsection 158 between the upper edge wall 156 and the left edge wall 160(i.e., corner) of the storage tray 118. The “grow-out” corner 152 may bedesigned to accommodate 2-3 cm of fiber growth.

The three passageways 140 that lead from the tube holding location 142to the different trays (e.g., the storage tray 118 and the splice trays116) have also been designed with similar grow-out zones 164 in the formof expanded corners. For example, the transition from the right or leftwalls 166 of the passageways 140 to the upper wall 168 have beendesigned generally with a small radius (i.e., a sharp bend) for thefeeder fiber(s) 12, preferably still meeting the minimum bend radiusrequirements of the feeder fiber(s) 12. However, in addition to thesharper bend, the upper corners have also been designed with grow-outzones 164. Thus, similar to the concept used in the entrance of thestorage tray 118, the feeder fibers 12 are forced to take a sharper turnfrom the right and left walls 166 when they abut the upper walls 168 ofthe passageways 140, leaving a certain amount of space or grow-out zone164 in the expanded corners. Thus, when the feeder fibers 12 experiencea grow-out, the feeder fibers 12 have room to grow into these corners.The passageways 140 are made wide enough to accommodate the initial bendof the feeder fiber 12 and also any grow-out that might be experiencedby the feeder fiber 12. The forced bend in combination with the curvedexpanded corner essentially allows room for the feeder fibers 12 to growduring temperature variations.

Now referring to FIGS. 31-32, after the splicing operation in the splicetrays 116, the module input fiber 13 that leads from the splice tray 116to the splitter module 32 is protected by a tube 102, as discussedabove, that crosses over the hinge of the enclosure 10. The tube 102 issecured/anchored to an output 170 of the splice tray 116 (please seeFIG. 31) and is secured to an input 96 of the splitter module 32 (pleasesee FIGS. 31, 32, 34, and 35).

In the depicted embodiment, two splice trays 116 are shown for theenclosure 10. As such, two of the feeder fibers 12 from the feeder cable14 can be spliced at each of the splice trays 116 to the module inputfibers 13 that lead to the splitter modules 32. For example, since theenclosure 10 has eight output ports 24 (four per row), each module inputfiber 13 may be split by a 1×4 splitter 34 in each of the two splittermodules 32, and the splitter outputs which are provided as connectorizedpigtails 28 may populate the eight output ports 24.

According to another example arrangement, if a feeder fiber 12 is beingprocessed at the same time as a branch cable fiber, the branch cablefiber may be kept separate from the feeder fiber 12 and lead to adifferent splice tray 116 from that of the splice tray 116 that receivesthe feeder fiber 12. From the splice trays 116, the branch cable fiberand the feeder fiber 12 may lead to separate splitter modules 32 for thesplitting operation and exit the enclosure.

Referring now to FIGS. 22-30, the tube holder 150 is used when routingthe feeder cable tube 138 into the enclosure 10, further details ofwhich are described below. And, when a feeder cable 14 is entering theenclosure 10 at the same time as a branch cable 20, the tube holder 150is useful in keeping the tubes 138 from the different cables 14, 20separate, as will be described below.

Still referring to FIGS. 22-30, the tube holder 150 of the enclosure 10is shown in closer detail. The tube holder 150 is slidably mounted to atube holding location 142 of the base 38 of the enclosure 10. The tubeholder 150 defines a mounting portion 172 and a divider portion 174. Thedivider portion 174 extends away from the mounting portion 172 and isconfigured to divide the tube holding location 142 of the enclosure 10into two separate channels 176 for keeping two cables separate (e.g., atube of the feeder cable 14 and a tube of the branch cable 20).

The mounting portion 172 is defined by the combination of a dovetailstructure 178 that protrudes from the divider portion 174 and a latchstructure 180 that is positioned at an opposite side of the dividerportion 174 from the dovetail structure 178. The dovetail structure 178is used in slidably moving the tube holder 150 within a track 182defined at the splice region of the base 38. The dovetail structure 178defines a tab 184 underneath thereof (please see FIG. 23) that is usedfor initially inserting the tube holder 150 into the track 182. Wheninserting, the tube holder 150 is tilted generally perpendicular to thetrack 182, and the dovetail structure 178 including the tab 184 areinserted into a T-shaped keyhole 186 defined at the bottom of the track182. The tube holder 150 is then tilted to a parallel position to thetrack 182 and is able to be slid along the track 182, with the tab 184preventing the removal of the tube holder 150 from the track 182(without retilting it to a perpendicular position).

The latch structure 180 is defined by a pair of opposing parallel walls188 on both sides of the divider 174. The parallel walls 188 define aslot 190 thereinbetween for receiving edges 192 defined by the tubeholding location 142. The tube holder 150 rides along the two edges 192defined by the tube holding location 142 as the tube holder 150 isslidably moved. The latch structure 180 defines latching ribs 194 thatmate with ribs 196 defined on the edges 192 for slidably locking thetube holder 150 into place. The edges 192 define a tapered profile thatprovides a locking feature for the tube holder 150. The latch structure180 of the tube holder 150 is elastically deflected as the ribs 194thereof mate with the ribs 196 defined on the edges 192 in locking thetube holder 150 into place. FIGS. 22-26 illustrate the steps in slidablymounting the tube holder 150 to the base 38 of the enclosure 10 forsecuring the tubes 138 of feeder or branch cables to the enclosure 10.FIG. 27 illustrates the tube holder 150 of the enclosure 10 in aslid-back/access position to allow one of the tubes 138 of a feedercable 14 to be secured to the enclosure 10 for further processing of thefeeder fibers 12 therein. FIG. 28 illustrates the tube 138 of the feedercable 14 placed within the tube holding location 142. FIG. 29illustrates the tube holder 150 in a closed position with a tube of thefeeder cable 14 and a tube of a branch cable 20 separated by the tubeholder 150. FIG. 30 is a close-up view of the tube holder 150, showingthe tube holder 150 separating the tube of the feeder cable 14 and thetube of the branch cable 20.

In summary, in the depicted example of the enclosure 10, to connect thefeeder fiber 12 to the drop fibers exiting the enclosure, the feedercable 14 is first routed into the enclosure 10 through one of the inputports 16. One of the feeder fibers 12 is routed from a terminated end ofthe feeder cable 14 to one of the splice trays 116 carried by the base38. As noted above, a cable jacket 128 and/or strength member 130 of thefeeder cable 14 can be anchored to the base 38 of the enclosure 10. Asplitter module 32 can be located at an inner side of the cover 40 ofthe enclosure 10. Connectorized ends of the output pigtails 28 of thesplitter module 32 are plugged into inner ports 64 of optical adapters26 carried by the cover 40.

When looking in the reverse direction, an unconnectorized end of themodule input fiber 13 is routed from the cover 40 to one of the splicetrays 116 at the base 38. The unconnectorized end of the module inputfiber 13 is then spliced to the end of the feeder fiber 12 and thesplice is stored at the splice tray 116. Then, a connection is finallyestablished between the feeder fibers 12 coming from an exterior of theenclosure 10 by plugging connectorized ends of the drop fibers into theouter ports 66 of the optical adapters 26.

As discussed previously, the unused tubes 138 from the feeder cable 14are stored in a loop 122 within a storage pocket 120 underneath thestorage tray 118. And, the unused feeder fibers 12 from the selectedtube 138 are stored in a looped configuration within the storage tray118.

Also, as discussed previously, even though the modular elements withinthe enclosure 10 have been discussed as modules that house opticalelements in the form of splitters 34, in other embodiments, the modules32 may provide straight-through cable routing. In such an arrangement,as shown in FIGS. 33-35, all of the feeder fibers 12 from a feeder cabletube 138 may be spliced at a splice tray 116 to connectorized pigtails28, which are then routed to a module 32 and managed within the module32 before leading to the adapters 26 on the cover 40 of the enclosure10.

Thus, the enclosure 10 is designed to provide a number of alternativeconnectivity solutions depending on the needs of the network.

Referring now to FIGS. 36-43, a module 200 according to one embodimentof the present disclosure is shown. The module 200 shares many featureswith the module 32 above. Similar to the module 32 described above, theenclosure 10 may removably house a singular module 200, or multiplemodules 200. In some embodiments, the module 200 can house opticalelements within a housing 202 in the form of splitters, or, in otherembodiments, the module 200 may provide straight-through cable routing.The module 200 may be configured to receive at least one module inputfiber 13 in a tube 204 (continuing the same signal as the feeder fiber12) and output a single or a plurality of connectorized pigtails 206.Each output pigtail 206 may have a connectorized end that can beconfigured to exit the example enclosure 10 via the ruggedized adapters26 as noted above. In some embodiments, the connectorized pigtails 206utilize SC connectors. When not in use, the connectorized pigtails 206can be stored on the module housing 202. By storing the connectorizedpigtails 206, the interior of the enclosure 10 becomes more organized,thereby easing installation and maintenance. Further, when storingoutput pigtails 206 on the module 200, it eases installation as theconnectorized pigtails 206 are out of the way of the installer.

Some embodiments of the present invention include a service connectionmethod to connect a subscriber into service by first disconnecting anindividual splitter output pigtail 206 from the storage position onmodule 200 and then routing the pigtail to the desired ruggedizedadapters 26. Other embodiments include a method of removing an outputpigtail 206 from ruggedized adapters 26 and either redeploying thatoutput pigtail 206 to new ruggedized adapters 26 or storing the outputpigtail 206 to the original storage position at the module 200.

The module housing 202 defines a first major surface 208 connected to asecond major surface 210 by a circumferential edge 212. The modulehousing 202 defines an interior between the major surfaces 208, 210. Themodule 200 can include an input opening 214 on the housing 202 that isconfigured with an anchor (not shown), similar to anchor 100 describedabove, for securing the tube 204 carrying the module input fiber orfibers 13. The input opening 214 provides access into the interior ofthe module housing 202.

Like the module 32, the module 200 may include a mounting arrangementthat aids in securing the module 200 within the pockets 72 defined bythe cover 40 of enclosure 10 of the present disclosure. The mountingarrangement may include catches 216 that extend outwardly from themodule housing 202 to mate with structures in each pocket 72 of theenclosure 10.

The first major surface 208 includes a pair of windows 218 and aplurality of connector storage slots 220. The windows 218 allow theinstaller to peer through the first major surface 208 into the interiorand to the second major surface 210 of the module 200. In someembodiments, the windows 218 allow the installer to gain a visual of atleast a portion of the mounting arrangement that aids in securing themodule 200 within the pockets 72 defined by the cover 40 of enclosure10. Further, as shown in FIGS. 36-38, a connectorized pigtail 206 isshown positioned within one of the connector storage slots 220.

FIGS. 39-43 show the housing 202 of the module 200. Specifically, theconnector storage slots 220 are shown to each include a first end 222, asecond end 224, a pair of retention tabs 226, a pair of side walls 228,and at least a partial end wall 230. Each slot 220 is configured toreceive the connectorized pigtail 206 at the first end 222 and hold theconnectorized pigtail 206 within the slot 220 until the installermanually removes the connectorized pigtail 206. When inserted into theslot 220 at the first end 222, the connectorized pigtail 206 slidesbetween the side walls 228 on a flat bottom surface 229 of the slot 220.The side walls 228 are spaced at a width that is slightly larger thanthe width of the connectorized pigtail 206. The side walls 228 therebyhelp to retain the connectorized pigtail 206 within the slot 220 andprevent the connectorized pigtail 206 from sliding around on the firstmajor surface 208 when the connectorized pigtail 206 is positionedwithin the slot 220. As the connectorized pigtail 206 slides within theslot 220 between the side walls 228, the connectorized pigtail 206encounters the retention tabs 226 at the second end 224 of the slot 220.

The retention tabs 226 are configured to interface with features of theconnectorized pigtail 206. In some embodiments, when the connectorizedpigtail 206 uses an SC connector, the retention tabs 226 interface withramped recesses on the connector (not shown). Once the connectorizedpigtail 206 interfaces with the retention tabs 226 of the slot 220, theretention tabs 226 prevent the connectorized pigtail 206 from moving ina direction away from the first major surface 208. In other embodiments,the retention tabs 226 can be configured to interface with a top surfaceof the connectorized pigtail 206.

After the retention tabs 226 have interfaced with the connectorizedpigtail 206, the connectorized pigtail 206 reaches the end wall 230 atthe second end 224. The end wall 230 prevents the installer from pushingthe connectorized pigtail 206 too far into the slot 220. The end wall230 also ensures that the retention tabs 226 are properly positioned onthe connectorized pigtail 206. In the depicted embodiment, the end wall230 is a partial end wall 230 that covers only a portion of the secondend 224 of the slot 220. In other embodiments, the end wall 230 may spanthe entire width of second end 224 of the slot 220.

In the depicted embodiment, the slots 220 also each include frictionreducing rails 232 disposed at the bottom surface 229 of the slot 220.The rails 232 can be an optional feature of the slot 220. The rails 232provide a surface for the connectorized pigtail 206 to slide on whenbeing inserted and removed from the slot 220. The rails 232 can reducethe friction between the slot 220 and the connectorized pigtail 206,making sliding the connectorized pigtail 206 within the slot 220 easier.

As shown, four connector storage slots 220 are disposed on the firstmajor surface 208 of the module 200. However, in some embodiments,additional or less connector storage slots 220 can be positioned on thefirst major surface 208.

The above specification, examples and data provide a completedescription of the manufacture and use of the composition of thedisclosure. Since many embodiments of the disclosure can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, the inventivefeatures reside in the claims hereinafter appended.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND CORRESPONDING FEATURES

-   10 Enclosure-   12 Feeder/input fiber-   13 Module input fiber-   14 Feeder cable-   16 Input port-   18 Interior of enclosure-   20 Branch cable-   22 Output of enclosure-   24 Output port of enclosure-   26 Optical adapter-   28 Connectorized pigtail-   30 Optical device-   32 Splitter module-   34 Fiber optic splitter-   36 Splitter module housing-   38 Base-   40 Cover-   42 Front of enclosure-   44 Rear of enclosure-   46 Top of enclosure-   48 Bottom of enclosure-   50 Right side of enclosure-   52 Left side of enclosure-   54 Mounting flange-   56 Fastener opening-   58 Enclosure gasket-   60 Hinge member-   62 Clasp arrangement-   64 Inner port of adapter-   66 Outer port of adapter-   68 Adapter mounting surface-   70 Module mounting surface-   72 Pocket-   74 Cover of splitter module-   76 First major surface-   78 Second major surface-   80 Circumferential edge-   82 Interior of splitter module-   84 First part-   86 Second part-   88 Latching tab-   90 Recess-   92 Optical device mounting region-   94 Fiber routing region-   96 Fiber input opening-   98 Outlet opening-   100 Anchor-   102 Tube-   104 Cable management tab-   106 Large spool-   108 Small spool-   110 Catch-   112 Protection cover-   114 Tab-   116 Splice tray-   118 Storage tray-   120 Pocket-   122 Loop-   124 Anchoring region-   126 Gel block-   128 Jacket-   130 Strength member-   132 Hose clamp-   134 Strain relief device-   136 Sealing pocket-   138 Input tube-   140 Passageway-   142 Tube holding location-   144 Cable management spool-   146 Cable management finger-   148 Splice area-   150 Tube holder-   152 Upper right and left corners of storage tray-   154 Angled input port-   156 Upper edge wall of storage tray-   158 Curved transition-   160 Left edge wall of storage tray-   162 Grow-out zone/area-   164 Grow-out zone/area of passageway-   166 Right/left wall of passageway-   168 Upper wall of passageway-   170 Output of splice tray-   172 Mounting portion of tube holder-   174 Divider portion of tube holder-   176 Channel-   178 Dovetail structure-   180 Latch structure-   182 Track-   184 Tab-   186 T-shaped keyhole-   188 Parallel walls-   190 Slot-   192 Edge-   194 Ribs of latching structure-   196 Ribs of edge-   198 Tube stop-   200 Module-   202 Housing-   204 Tube-   206 Connectorized pigtail-   208 First major surface-   210 Second major surface-   212 Circumferential edge-   214 Input opening-   216 Catch-   218 Window-   220 Connector storage slot-   222 First end of slot-   224 Second end of slot-   226 Retention tab-   228 Side wall-   229 Flat bottom surface-   230 End wall-   232 Rail

The invention claimed is:
 1. A fiber optic module comprising: a housinghaving a first major surface and an opposite second major surface, and acircumferential edge connecting the first major surface to the secondmajor surface and defining an interior between the first and secondmajor surfaces; an input opening configured to receive at least onemodule input fiber; a plurality of connectorized pigtail outputs routedfrom the housing, each connectorized pigtail output configured to carrya signal from the at least one module input fiber; and a plurality ofconnector storage slots disposed on the first major surface of thehousing, each connector storage slot having a first end, a second end,one or more retention tabs, one or more side walls, and at least apartial end wall, and each connector storage slot being configured tostore a connectorized pigtail output on the first major surface.
 2. Themodule of claim 1, further comprising a fiber optic splitter to splitthe at least one module input fiber into the plurality of connectorizedpigtail outputs.
 3. The module of claim 1, wherein the module providesstraight through cable routing for the at least one module input fiber.4. The module of claim 1, further comprising one or more catches thatare configured to mate with structures inside a pocket of atelecommunications enclosure.
 5. The module of claim 4, furthercomprising at least one window opening in the first major surface, theat least one window opening providing a view of at least a portion ofthe catches when secured within the pocket of the enclosure.
 6. Themodule of claim 1, further comprising rails disposed at a bottom surfaceof each connector storage slot, the rails providing a surface for theconnectorized pigtail outputs to slide on when inserted and removed froma connector storage slot.
 7. The module of claim 1, wherein theretention tabs are configured to interface with a top surface of aconnectorized pigtail output to prevent the connectorized pigtail outputfrom moving in a direction perpendicular to the first major surface. 8.The module of claim 1, wherein a connectorized pigtail output can bedisconnected from a connector storage slot on the first major surface ofthe housing, and the connectorized pigtail output can be routed to anoptical adapter to connect a subscriber into service.
 9. The module ofclaim 1, wherein a connectorized pigtail output can be disconnected froman optical adapter, and the connectorized pigtail output can be storedin a connector storage slot on the first major surface of the housing todisconnect a subscriber from service.
 10. The module of claim 1, whereinfour or more connector storage slots are positioned on the first majorsurface of the fiber optic module.
 11. The module of claim 1, whereinthe connectorized pigtail outputs are SC connectors.
 12. A fiber opticmodule comprising: a housing having a first major surface and anopposite second major surface, and a circumferential edge connecting thefirst major surface to the second major surface and defining an interiorbetween the first and second major surfaces; one or more catches thatare configured to mate with one or more structures inside a pocket of atelecommunications enclosure; an input opening configured to receive atleast one module input fiber; at least one connectorized pigtail outputrouted from the housing, the at least one connectorized pigtail outputconfigured to carry a signal from the at least one module input fiber;at least one window opening in the first major surface, the windowopening providing a view of at least a portion of the catches whensecured within the pocket of the enclosure.
 13. The module of claim 12,further comprising a pair of window openings in the first major surface,the pair of window openings providing a view through the first majorsurface into the interior and to the second major surface of the module.14. The module of claim 12, wherein the catches extend outwardly fromthe housing to mate with structures inside the pocket of the enclosure.15. The module of claim 12, further comprising a fiber optic splitter tosplit the at least one module input fiber into the plurality ofconnectorized pigtail outputs.
 16. The module of claim 12, wherein themodule provides straight through cable routing for the at least onemodule input fiber.
 17. The module of claim 12, further comprising atleast one connector storage slot disposed on the first major surface ofthe housing, the at least one connector storage slot configured to storea connectorized pigtail output on the first major surface.
 18. Themodule of claim 17, wherein a connectorized pigtail output is stored inthe connector storage slot adjacent to the at least one window openingin the first major surface.
 19. The module of claim 18, wherein theconnectorized pigtail output is stored in the connector storage slot bysliding the connectorized pigtail output on a bottom surface of theconnector storage slot from a first end to a second end of the connectorstorage slot.
 20. The module of claim 19, further comprising one or moreretention tabs on the connector storage slot, the one or more retentiontabs configured to interface with a top surface of the connectorizedpigtail output to prevent the connectorized pigtail output from movingin a direction perpendicular to the first major surface.